Direct sellers given chance to settle tax bills

PEOPLE selling directly to customers who have outstanding tax liabilities have been offered a limited-time amnesty to settle their bills.

Anyone using the scheme will be given smaller penalties than would be meted out when HM Revenue & Customs catch up with them.

Direct sellers are defined as anyone who sells products without using a shop, including door-to-door salesmen, or demonstrating a product in someone’s home and at parties, with the sellers then taking commission on the sales they make.

HMRC head of campaigns Marian Wilson said: “If you are involved in direct selling and have not told HMRC about all of your income, you may not be paying the right amount of tax. This campaign is an opportunity for you to bring your tax affairs up to date, on the best possible terms.”